Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training options are offered, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are numerous programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Waupun WI area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to find out what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other crucial issues to research also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick need to be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance training. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Waupun WI law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the program you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Waupun WI law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while attending school. They can also present an avenue for students to start establishing contacts within the Waupun WI legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are evaluating offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Wisconsin legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ from state to state, it may be beneficial to enroll in a paralegal school domiciled in Wisconsin or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to cultivate relationships in the local legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the area where you wish to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may want to first investigate those colleges that are within the Waupun WI area.
What is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in cost based on the credential earned and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be available to help minimize some of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Waupun WI. Of course if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while receiving their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Waupun WI, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you select provides that option. Finally, ask what the process is for making-up classes missed due to work, illness or family obligations.